First Waitrose Convenient Store Launched Today

While other stores are merging to create giant superstores to combat the economic slump, Waitrose has decided to go mini.

The chain has opened its first of four trial stores planned, in Trinity Square of Nottingham today. The store opens from 7.30am to 9pm on weekdays and Saturdays, and 11am to 5pm on Sundays.

The small 5,800sq ft shop is part of the John Lewis Partnership that already has 192 stores in UK. Waitrose will be launching another three more convenience stores by the spring of 2009. The aim is to create what Waitrose calls "market town" supermarkets, to put more emphasis on local and fresh produce including fish, meat, and cheese. The shops will sell freshly baked bread on-site, with takeaway breakfast, lunch and/or dinner. There will also be coffee bars on site. For those of you in Nottingham, go check it out and let us know what you think.